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The Yorkshire Post Wednesday October 16th 2002

Windows cover-up still throws light on congregation

 

A York church famed for its medieval stained glass has some new decoration.

Major restoration work at St. Denys Church in Walmgate means one side of the building is filled with scaffolding and fine art students James Trayling, Rachel Johnston, and Anna Hay from York St. John College have painted six 6ft tall decorative panels to hide the supports while the restoration is underway.

Named Windows Revisited, the six paintings depict images from the church's history, incorporating architecture, psalms, the Irish community traditionally based in the Walmgate area and even a colony of butterflies which has made its home in the church.

The students met the congregation, attended services, and researched local archives.

Repairs to the tower are complete but restoration work on the south-east wall will continue until Christmas and it will take several more months before the medieval glass can be replaced.

Priest-in-charge David Goodhew said the paintings were so popular a permanent home will have to be found for them when the scaffolding comes down.

Miss Johnston, a second year student, said the aim was to create contemporary art relevant to the church.  "We spent time with the congregation listening to their stories to gain an understanding of St Denys and its social and historical background," she said.

"Our work reflects their faith, their community and their history."